U.S. ARMY BAND “PERSHING’S OWN” MAKES UNPRECEDENTED APPEARANCE AT CARY 4TH OF JULY CELEBRATION

Cary, NC – “Pershing’s Own”, the U.S. Army’s premier musical organization since 1922, will join the North Carolina Symphony for Cary’s Independence Day concert at the Koka Booth Amphitheatre featuring a patriotic musical celebration like no other. Come early and enjoy the beautiful setting as Applause! - Cary Youth Theatre’s trouping company - performs “We the People” at 3:30 p.m. The patriotic performances continue as you settle back for the Cary Town Band at 5 p.m. Then, it’s the North Carolina Symphony at 7:30 p.m. followed by the United States Army Band. Cap off your celebration with the Triangle’s largest and most exciting fireworks display. Performances are free and gates open at 3 p.m.

Since 1922 “Pershing’s Own”, named for Army Chief of Staff General John J. “Black Jack” Pershing, has played an important role in events of national and international significance, such as leading every inaugural parade since 1925 with the inauguration of President Calvin Coolidge. Over the past 83 years, “Pershing’s Own” has served in a wide variety of roles, broadening in scope and diversity by establishing several regular-performing ensembles after 1945. Today, musicians of “Pershing’s Own” render musical honors on a regular basis for foreign dignitaries, heads of state, diplomats, and high-ranking military officers. The Army Band also plays a vital role in music education, often serving as the featured group at prominent music conferences and conventions throughout the nation and abroad.

Among the gifted vocalists who will be in Cary to perform with the Army Band and the Symphony on July 4th is Staff Sgt. Christal Rheams, a native of Raleigh North Carolina. Sgt. Rheams has been thrilling audiences with her vocal talent for more than 15 years. Her earliest memories of singing include being a member of the All Boys Band in the “Music Man” at the age of five. Rheams is currently a member of the U.S. Army Chorale, an element of “Pershing’s Own” where she continues to wow audiences and serve her country, two of her greatest loves.

In addition to the spectacular vocals that come with the U.S. Army Band, the critically acclaimed, world-renowned U.S. Army Herald Trumpets will play a major role in the evening’s festivities. Whether arrayed on the balcony of The White House hailing the arrival of visiting dignitaries from around the world or providing a thrilling climax to a concert, the U.S. Army Herald Trumpets are one of the most spectacular performing groups in America.

Leading the contingent coming to Cary is Colonel Thomas Rotondi, Jr. He is the eighth Leader and Commander of “Pershing’s Own” and his list of accomplishments are broad and numerous. Colonel Rotondi joined the United States Army as a trumpet player in December 1977. He received his commission in July of 1982 through Officer Candidate School, where he was an honor graduate. He has studied, performed and accompanied some of the most talented musicians and conductors of our day and will lead “Pershing’s Own” on the Booth Amphitheatre stage for a performance alongside the North Carolina Symphony that promises to be profound and memorable. He will join Symphony Associate Conductor William Henry Curry at the podium for a spectacular finale.

“The significance of this appearance is highly reflective of Cary’s first-class July 4th Celebration” said Town of Cary Cultural Arts Manager Lyman Collins. “This year’s concert will feature two world class ensembles, The North Carolina Symphony and The U.S. Army Band, in an unforgettable performance. Our audience is always wowed by the Symphony, and to have them joined by “Pershing’s Own” guarantees top-notch performances of some of the true classics in music. The fact that the Army Band would choose Cary and perform at Booth Amphitheatre on the most patriotic day of the year speaks well of the meaningful family celebration that we have at the Amphitheatre.”

Bring a picnic or purchase your food and beverage from the Amphitheatre’s concessionaires. Tarps, blankets & chairs are welcome; however, staking and tents are not. For more detailed information of the complete July 4th festivities at Booth Amphitheatre call 469-4061 or visit www.boothamphitheatre.com.

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